There are thousands of different skincare products crowding the market. And while variety is a good thing, knowing which products to choose from can be a bit overwhelming.
Most people will agree that they’ve tried dozens of products from different brands before they found what works best for them.
If you have dry or oily skin, buying products made for your specific skin type is essential. But when you have sensitive skin, you have to be even more careful about the products you use on your face and body.
Shopping for a new cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, or serum? Here are the eleven best skincare products for sensitive skin.
Cleansers
The initial step of any proper skincare routine is washing with a facial cleanser. Even on days when you don’t wear makeup, it’s crucial to wash the skin morning and night to remove dirt, grime, and pollutants. All of these things go deep beneath the skin, clogging your pores and causing breakouts.
1. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Dermatologist approved La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Facial Cleanser is perfect for washing sensitive skin.
It contains thermal spring water, ceramide-3, and niacinamide, which help soothe and restore the skin. Not only does it offer a deep clean, but it helps to maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier and pH balance.
2. SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser
The SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser doesn’t contain alcohol, sulfates, parabens, or soaps.
This makes it a favorite among people with sensitive skin. It’s a creamy cleanser that is super mild. It includes orange oil to soften and restore the surface of the skin.
Use it day and night for the best results.
3. Simple Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing Water
No matter how good your cleanser may be, it can leave residual dirt behind. The Simple Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing Water is a great way to remove makeup and get rid of any residue that your cleanser can’t eliminate.
Some people use micellar water as their primary facial cleanser. But when used as a second cleansing step after you've already washed your face, it can provide even greater benefits.
Moisturizers
No matter your skin type, you absolutely need to moisturize it. If your skincare routine doesn’t include a deeply hydrating moisturizer, here are some great products to try.
4. Cerave Moisturizing Cream
Hyaluronic acid and ceramides make Cerave Moisturizing Cream deeply hydrating. It can do wonders for all sorts of skin, including eliminating extra-dry patches.
You can use this moisturizer on both your face and body, so it’s perfect for people who prefer products they can use in more ways than one.
5. Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer
If you have irritated skin, it’s time to apply some Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer. This hydrating gel soothes, calms, and nourishes the skin for up to 24 hours.
Aveeno specifically formulated this gel for people with sensitive skin. Like all effective moisturizers, it replenishes the skin’s moisture barrier to help lock in hydration.
6. Curel Daily Healing Dry Skin Hand and Body Lotion
From your face to your feet, you can use Curel Daily Healing Dry Skin Hand and Body Lotion all over your body. It feels great on the face, but we especially love it for the way it makes our dry hands, heels, and elbows feel.
This lotion contains an advanced ceramide complex for a moisturizer that absorbs quickly and doesn’t feel greasy on the skin.
BONUS: this Curel moisturizer is also super affordable. Target sells the 20-ounce bottle for just about $8!
7. Eucerin Roughness Relief Spot Treatment
When you want to target a specific area of ultra-dry skin, Eucerin Roughness Relief Spot Treatment is an effective option.
This product has the power to hydrate, exfoliate, and smooth the skin. It’s a top option for people whose skin is both sensitive and dry at the same time.
Sunscreens
Never leave the house without applying sunscreen. Even on dreary, cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate the skin and cause damage. If you’re not already using sunscreen daily to protect your sensitive skin, here are two great options.
8. EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Is your sensitive skin prone to acne? Do you suffer from rosacea or hyperpigmentation?
If so, check out EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 sunscreen. It includes hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate the skin. And, it’s lightweight enough to apply before you put on your makeup.
9. Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
Protect your sensitive skin from UVA and UVB rays with Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF30.
This sunblock includes sheer zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to prevent sunburn and vitamin E to soothe and calm the skin.
This product’s great because it doesn’t make your skin feel greasy like so many other sunscreens.
Serums and Toners
Looking for a way to maximize your skincare routine? Adding a serum or a toner to your daily routine can make a huge difference!
10. Murad Sensitive Skin Soothing Serum
Apply the Murad Sensitive Skin Soothing Serum to your face, neck, and chest after using a cleanser and before applying moisturizer.
Its hyaluronic acid and glycolipids help the skin retain moisture. The addition of chamomile soothes the skin and makes it feel soft and supple.
11. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Wild Oat Toner
If you’ve never tried First Aid before, you’re missing out. Their products are super powerful and oh-so-gentle on the skin.
The Ultra Repair Wild Oat Hydrating Toner includes oat milk, colloidal oatmeal, wild oats, hyaluronic acid, and honey. These soothing ingredients hydrate the skin and relieve redness. Using it helps lead to a more balanced, clear complexion.
Apply this toner after cleansing your skin and using serum (if you use one).
Conclusion
To maintain a good skincare routine, you need to use a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen every single day.
And when you have sensitive skin, you can’t just use any product — you have to choose formulas that won’t irritate the skin.
When you buy a skincare product, make sure it’s safe for use on sensitive skin.
With the right products, you can protect your skin, restore your skin, and be well on your way to having that gorgeous, glowing look you’ve always wanted!
Author bio:
Adam Marshall is a freelance writer who specializes in all things apartment organization, real estate, and college advice. He currently works with The Kiley to help them with their online marketing.